Hennessy Cocktails To Set Off National Cognac Day Properly

It just so happens that June 4 is National Cognac Day. Considering the spirit, particularly Hennessy, is one of Hip-Hop’s favorite’s (see: Tupac’s “Thug Passion” or Mobb Deep’s “Shook Ones, Pt. 2” video—ignore the misspelling) it’s only right we pay homage.

First the difference between the Henny you might order at the club vs. Hennessy V.S.O.P Privilège must be noted. As for the initials, it dates back to 1817 when the soon to be King George IV gave the House of Hennessy the mission to supply him with a special Cognac—then known as a a “Very Superior Old Pale.”

Hennessy Privilège hearkens to that superior blend, which makes it perfect for classic cocktails. These recipes are for the finer, and pricier, Hennessy V.S.O.P Privilège, but we won’t knock you if you flip them with good ol’ Hennessy V.S.

Check them out below and on the following pages. Enjoy, responsibly.

—

Jerry Thomas Brandy Punch
1.5 liters of Water
1 liter Hennessy V.S.O.P
5 oz of Lightly Aged Rum
2 cups of simple syrup or 3 cups of sugar
9 oz of lemon juice
2 oz Grand Marnier
4 oz of Hibiscus Grenadine
½ a pineapple sliced
2 oranges sliced into wheels
1 package of Raspberries

—
Photo: Hennessy

The Hennessy Sazerac
2 1/2 oz Hennessy V.S.O.P Privilège
1/8 oz Absinthe
1/2 oz Simple Syrup
5 Dashes Peychaud’s Bitters
Garnish: Lemon Twist
Glass: Rocks

French 75
1.5 oz Hennessy V.S.O.P Privilège
.5 oz Simple syrup
.75 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
top with sparkling wine or champagne
Garnish: Lemon Twist
Glass: Flute